In combination with gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and sorrel, cowslip is used for maintaining healthy sinuses and treating swollen and painful sinuses (sinusitis).

Possibly Effective for...

Inflamed nasal passages or sinusitis. Some research suggests that taking a specific combination of cowslip, gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and sorrel (SinuComp by Sinupret) improves symptoms of sinusitis.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of cowslip for these uses.

How does Cowslip work?

Cowslip contains chemicals that might thin and loosen mucus.

Are there safety concerns?

Cowslip is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth in small amounts as part of a combination product containing gentian root, European elder flower, verbena, and sorrel (SinuComp, Sinupret). There isn't enough information to know if cowslip is safe when used in medicinal amounts other than as part of the combination product. The combination product can cause digestive system upset and occasionally allergic skin rash.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking cowslip if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Dosing considerations for Cowslip.

For sudden or ongoing swollen sinuses (sinusitis): a specific combination product (SinuComp, Sinupret) containing 36 mg of cowslip flower plus 12 mg of gentian root and 36 mg each of European elder flower, verbena, and sorrel three times daily.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.